Sidebar navigation
Supporting our students
Restoring our heritage for the future
Wiltshire Building
We’re restoring heritage to this former military drill shed, to create a modern, welcoming home for our front-of-house Student Services teams. The project will revitalise this historic building while preserving its character, delivering a spacious, purpose-built environment with dedicated consultation spaces.
Originally built in 1899 as a military drill hall, the Wiltshire Building has long been part of Portsmouth’s rich heritage. Taking care to preserve key original features, such as the distinctive drill hall clock, the University will ensure the building continues to contribute to the city’s architectural identity while serving a new generation of students.
Key facts
- Location: Wiltshire Building, Hampshire Terrace
- Expected completion date: Summer 2026
- Building name: Wiltshire Building
Key features
- A new home for front-of-house Student Services
- Renovating a historic building for modern use
- Retaining the building’s character and honouring its historic significance
Wiltshire Building
The former military drill hall will retain its heritage character on the outside, with restorative works to the external masonry and new windows to protect the building for years to come.
Retaining original features
Inside, the building will retain its character and utilise original features such as its vaulted ceiling and a clock inscribed to Major C.W. Bevis.
Consultation rooms
Private consultation rooms will provide students with a comfortable space to meet with Student Services for support.
A comfortable environment
The open space with soft furnishings will create a warm, comfortable environment for students and Student Services.
Natural light
The large windows will fill the space with natural light.
Latest updates on Wiltshire Building
The internal areas of the building have now been fully demolished, and are ready for internal works to begin.
More like this
Next step in University of Portsmouth Estate Masterplan underway
The University of Portsmouth has begun refurbishment works on the Wiltshire Building, marking another important milestone in its long-term Estate Masterplan.
11 August 2025
6